Many pet owners underestimate the importance of dental hygiene for their furry companions. While bad breath (halitosis) is certainly a sign of dental trouble, neglected oral health can lead to serious health problems for your pet.
This article will delve into the importance of pet dental care, explore the risks of dental disease, and provide guidance on establishing a good dental hygiene routine for your pet.
Why is Dental Care Important for Pets?
Just like humans, pets develop plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth after eating. If not removed through brushing or chewing, plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus). This tartar buildup irritates the gums, causing gingivitis, a form of gum inflammation.
Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious gum infection that damages the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, pain, and even systemic health problems, as bacteria from the infected mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Here are some warning signs that your pet may be suffering from dental disease:
- Bad breath (halitosis): This is a common sign, but not the only one. While some level of breath odor is normal in pets, a strong, foul-smelling odor can indicate dental problems.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are signs of inflammation and potential infection.
- Loose teeth: Teeth that are loose or wiggly are a serious sign of advanced periodontal disease.
- Difficulty chewing or eating: If your pet seems to be having trouble chewing their food, dropping kibble, or favoring one side of their mouth while chewing, they may be experiencing pain due to dental disease.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign of mouth pain or discomfort caused by dental problems.
- Pawing at the mouth: Some pets will paw at their mouth in an attempt to alleviate pain or irritation caused by dental disease.
- Weight loss: If your pet is losing weight despite having a normal appetite, it could be due to difficulty chewing or eating caused by dental pain.
Establishing a Dental Care Routine for Your Pet
The good news is that dental disease in pets is largely preventable with a consistent dental care routine. Here’s how to get started:
- Brushing: Ideally, brush your pet’s teeth daily using a pet-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
- Getting Started: Start by getting your pet accustomed to having their mouth handled. Gently lift their lips and massage their gums with your finger for a few seconds at a time. Gradually increase the duration as your pet tolerates it. You can also use a finger brush or gauze pad at first to introduce the sensation of having something in their mouth. Once comfortable, transition to a pet toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.
- Brushing Technique: Focus on brushing the outer surfaces of the teeth, especially near the gum line where plaque and tartar tend to accumulate. Use a gentle circular motion and brush for 30 seconds to a minute. Don’t force it if your pet struggles – even a brief brushing session is better than none.
- Dental chews and treats: Dental chews and treats that are designed to scrape plaque and tartar buildup can be a helpful supplement to brushing.
- Choosing the Right Chews: Look for veterinarian-approved chews that are appropriate for your pet’s size, age, and chewing habits. The chew should be hard enough to scrape teeth but soft enough to prevent them from breaking. Avoid nylon chews, which can wear down teeth, and rawhide chews, which can be a choking hazard. Some good options include dental kibble, veterinary-approved bully sticks, and textured chew toys.
- Supervision and Moderation: It’s important to supervise your pet when they are chewing on dental treats to ensure they don’t break off large pieces or swallow them whole. Also, use dental chews in moderation, as some can be high in calories.
- Dental diets: Some commercially available pet foods are formulated to promote dental health.
- How Dental Diets Work: These diets often have a kibble texture that is designed to be more abrasive than regular kibble, helping to scrape teeth as pets chew. They may also contain ingredients that can help to freshen breath or reduce plaque formation.
- Consulting Your Veterinarian: Discuss with your veterinarian whether a dental diet is appropriate for your pet. They can help you choose a food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs and supports their dental health.
Professional dental cleanings:
Regularly scheduled professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are crucial for removing tartar buildup that cannot be reached with brushing or chews.
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Importance of Professional Cleanings: Tartar buildup is mineralized plaque that cannot be removed with brushing or chewing. Professional dental cleanings involve scaling the teeth to remove tartar and polishing the teeth to remove any remaining plaque and smooth out the tooth surface, making it more difficult for plaque to adhere in the future. Dental cleanings also allow your veterinarian to examine your pet’s mouth for signs of dental disease and address any underlying oral health problems.
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Frequency of Cleanings: The frequency of professional dental cleanings will vary depending on your pet’s age, breed, overall health, and dental health status. Generally, young healthy pets may only need cleanings every 1-2 years, while older pets or pets with dental disease may need them more frequently. Your veterinarian will recommend a cleaning schedule based on your pet’s individual needs.
Additional Tips
- Start early: The earlier you begin a dental care routine with your pet, the easier it will be and the healthier their teeth will be throughout their life. Introduce tooth brushing or finger brushing to puppies and kittens when they are young to get them accustomed to having their mouths handled.
- Make it a positive experience: Brushing your pet’s teeth should be a positive experience for both of you. Use a gentle touch, praise your pet throughout the process, and offer them a reward afterward, such as a favorite toy or treat.
- Schedule regular veterinary checkups: Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s oral health during routine checkups and recommend the best course of action for preventing dental disease. They can also provide guidance on brushing techniques, dental products, and dental diets.
By following these tips and making dental care a part of your pet’s regular routine, you can help ensure they live a long and healthy life. Brushing those pearly whites might not be your pet’s favorite activity, but a clean mouth is a happy (and fresh-smelling) mouth! Now, if your furry friend’s breath still rivals a gym sock after a particularly intense game of fetch, don’t despair! We’ve got another article awesomely prepared for you: halitosis in pets.